Working Together to Grow Tourism in Circular Head
Fresh from Stanley being named Tasmania's 2026 People's Choice Top Tourism Town, Circular Head Council and the Circular Head Tourism Association (CHTA) have renewed their long-standing partnership to continue growing tourism across the municipality.
The renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) strengthens the way Council and CHTA work together to promote Circular Head, support local tourism businesses and advocate for the visitor economy.
Tourism plays an important role in Circular Head, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and contributing to vibrant communities. The renewed agreement provides a clear framework for Council and CHTA to continue working together on destination marketing, industry development, visitor servicing, strategic planning and tourism advocacy.
Mayor Gerard Blizzard said the agreement recognised that strong partnerships are key to growing a successful visitor economy.
"Tourism is one of Circular Head's most important industries, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and contributing to the vibrancy of our communities. This agreement acknowledges that the best outcomes are achieved when Council, industry and community work together toward a shared vision."
Mayor Blizzard said Stanley's recent recognition as Tasmania's People's Choice Top Tourism Town highlighted the strength of that collaborative approach.
"The award is a wonderful example of what collaboration can achieve. It belongs not only to Stanley, but to everyone across our municipality who contributes to creating exceptional visitor experiences."
As part of the agreement, Council will invest $50,000 during 2026–27 to support destination marketing and tourism industry development through CHTA, alongside ongoing collaboration to strengthen the visitor economy across Circular Head.
CHTA President Valentino Surjan said the renewed partnership provided confidence for the local tourism industry.
"This partnership enables us to continue promoting everything that makes Circular Head special while supporting local operators to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with operating in the current climate."
"The People's Choice award demonstrates what can be achieved when industry, volunteers and Council work together with a shared purpose. We're excited to build on that momentum. Next year we will be entering Smithton into the Top Tourism Town Awards for the first time."
The agreement also formalises how Council and CHTA will continue working together through regular meetings, shared planning, performance reporting and collaborative tourism projects that support the long-term growth of the visitor economy.
General Manager Paul Gardner said successful tourism was about much more than marketing.
"Great destinations don't happen by chance. They are created through sustained investment, collaboration and a shared commitment to continuously improving the visitor experience."
"Whether it's supporting local tourism businesses, advocating for infrastructure, welcoming visitors through our visitor information centres or telling the stories that make Circular Head unique, this agreement provides a strong foundation for working together."
The renewed Memorandum of Understanding commenced on 1 August 2026 and reflects the shared commitment of Council and the Circular Head Tourism Association to continue building a resilient, sustainable and prosperous tourism industry that benefits local businesses, residents and visitors alike.
See more including digital video entry and suggested itinerary for the area!
